Smoking is tragically the single-biggest cause of preventable death in America. Seeking a “safer” (or perhaps more effective) way to deliver nicotine to their bloodstream, vaping (or e-cigarette use) is quickly becoming the trend among teenage smokers.
Vapers obviously believe the claims that e-cigarettes are safe because they do not include the additives and the toxins that accompany burning tobacco. Vaping is even being touted as a way to “quit” smoking.
Statements by the FDA and the American Heart Association are taking a cautious stance on the conclusion that vaping is a “healthy alternative” to smoking. In fact, vaping may be even more addictive than traditional cigarettes.
While some of the research may be considered alarmist (example, regarding the actual levels of inhaled formaldehyde retained by users) other research reveals that exposure to e-cigarettes can impair pulmonary anti-bacterial and anti-viral defenses in mice who smoke. The World Health Organization (WHO) has recommended a ban on indoor use of e-cigarettes finding an increased risk of exposure to non-smokers and bystanders and the California Department of Public Health has issued a health advisory warning of the toxicity of e-cigarettes.
Until the short and long-term effects of vaping are settled for both users and bystanders, Certified Legal Nurse Consultants should be on the alert. I predict vaping (e-cigarette) cases will be the next wave of litigation for attorneys and Certified Legal Nurse Consultants. All CLNC® consultants should keep eyes open for this next consulting opportunity.
I’m Just Sayin’
P.S. Comment and share your opinion on vaping (e-cigarette) cases.
I wondered how long it would take for e-cigarettes to be questioned. If you have ever looked inside a supply case for one, it stinks worse than a cigarette butt. I can’t imagine putting that into anyone’s lungs and thinking it was healthy.
I am not surprised to see the potential litigation on the e-cigarettes. Rumors abound about people dying from pneumonia. This is not a healthy alternative to quit smoking. Twice I have had physicians tell family members to turn to e-cigarettes…and smoke formaldehyde and other chemicals, or get pneumonia? I think not.
My son (24) has been using Vaps for several months now. He made the statement to me that it’s helping him to quit smoking. I read the enclosed material that came with the new Vaporizer. I recall (paraphrasing) this device or system is not for smoking cessation.